In this post, I’d like to talk about some of my favourite products and the gear I use on a daily basis.
Before I get into the list, I’ll start by saying that I try to be a very responsible consumer. In other words, I think carefully before I make a purchase and ask myself, “Do I really need this?”. I also like to purchase things that have a long life-span that I’ll get a lot of use out of.
Don’t want to read this post, listen to the podcast or watch the video instead:
MacBook Pro
I have a 2018 13” MacBook Pro as my daily computer. I’ve been using Mac’s since 2006 and and I’m now deep in the Apply ecosystem.
I choose to use a MacBook as it’s convenient for moving between home and the co-working space. I decided on the Pro so I have some extra power when it comes to editing podcasts and video.
The newer generation MacBooks have had some issues with the keyboard. I used to have issues with the space bar double spacing. I’ve mostly solved this now using the Unshaky app.
iPhone and Apple Watch
I’m currently using the iPhone XS and Apple Watch (2nd gen). If you have a Mac, it just makes sense to have the iPhone as well. Things like iCloud, Airdrop and handoff make it so easy to move between devices.
I like the Apple Watch but could live without it. It’s nice for sleep and fitness tracking. You really have to make sure you tame the notifications though.
Airpods
In my opinion, Airpods are probably the single best product to come out of Apple in a long time. It’s hard to describe but I get an immense sense of satisfaction when I pop open the case, take out the headphones (without having to untangle any wires), put them in my ears and double tap on the right Airpod to start a podcast without having to touch my phone.
On a previous podcast episode I talked about how I wanted some Airpods but wasn’t buying any as I didn’t “need” them. Hayley ended up buying me some for our anniversary and I’m so glad she did.
Myles Apparel Momentum Shorts
Time for something a bit different…
For working out and doing CrossFit, I wear the Myles Apparel Momentum Shorts. The thing I love about these shorts is that they’re super light-weight and stretchy. They really are the comfiest shorts I’ve ever owned and don't restrict you in any way.
The pockets are aligned backwards which means if you’re carrying a phone or wallet while out for a run, your stuff doesn’t bounce around and hit your leg.
Rehband Knee Sleeves
I wear the Rehband kneed sleeves almost any time I work out. I don’t know what it is but when I’m going to pick up a bar or jump on a box, I feel more protected and secure.
CrossFit is a high-intensity form of working out and it’s important to look after yourself by using the right technique. Wearing knee sleeves gives you that extra layer of protection and confidence.
Allbirds Tree Runners
Allbirds is a New Zealand shoe manufacturer that make shoes out of merino wool and eucalyptus trees. They have a big emphasis on sustainability which I really like and their shoes are incredibly comfortable.
You can wear them without socks, they’re machine washable so it’s easy to keep them looking nice. I find that the wool runners get quite soft and collapse after a while. I’ve been wearing the tree runners for about 6 months and so far, so good.
Bose Quietcomfort 35 headphones (1st gen)
I spend a lot of time on the phone with clients and the Bose Quietcomfort 35’s are my headphones of choice. These guys are incredibly comfortable and the noise cancellation is top-notch.
I’ve had them for a few years and I was a little disappointed when the ear cup cushioning started to flake away. I purchased some replacement cushions (affiliate link) on Amazon and they feel brand new again.
Tiles
I’ve been using Tiles ever since I received one for a birthday about 5 years ago. You can attach these little bluetooth trackers to your keys, bag, camera etc. and the Tile will show you via their app where your stuff is.
I have a Tile Pro on my keys and a Tile Slim in my wallet.
You only have to lose your wallet and go through the hassle of replacing all your cards once to appreciate just how useful these things are. Now, if I misplace my wallet, you can use the app to see where you left it and trigger the Tile to emit an audible alert when you're near by.
MOO Business cards
Running a virtual business, I don’t give out business cards all that often. But when I was attending a conference a few years ago, I decided that I needed to take some cards and settled on some Luxe cards by Moo.
The Luxe cards are a little more expensive but super high-quality. They are “impressively thick” with “a pop of colour in the middle” and every time I give someone one of these cards I get a compliment.
Bellroy Card Sleeve and Note Sleeve
I love Bellroy’s stuff and have owned a few of their wallets over the years. I’m currently using the Bellroy Card Sleeve which is great for carrying a few cards if you don’t need to carry cash. I also have the Note Sleeve which is handy for travelling when you need to stash some paper notes.
Bellroy Laptop Brief
I use the Bellroy Laptop Brief for traveling between home and the co-working space. It’s a nice satchel that can carry and protect a 13” laptop.
With a heap of pockets, there’s no shortage of ways you can organise your stuff. The stretchy internal pockets fit my headphones really nicely so I don’t need to store them in a separate case. You can also unclip the shoulder strap and carry it like a briefcase if you want to rock a more professional look.
I’ve had it for about a year and so far it’s shown no signs of wear and tear.
B-2 Nano Blade
Over the years I’ve owned various pocket knives and multi-tools but never had them on me when I really needed them. They’re all too big and so I would never have anything on me.
I found the B-2 Nano Blade on Kickstarter in 2017. It’s advertised as “The world’s smallest tactical blade” and it fits perfectly into the coin pocket of my jeans. It’s so small you almost forget that you have it.
It’s a tiny little knife that’s really well made. You can tell just by holding it that it’s well made and strong. It obviously won’t be much good if I need to fight off a bear, but for cutting up boxes and small jobs it’s a handy thing to have on me.
Stainless steel, double-walled water bottles (no brand)
I don’t use any particular brand but I now have a few stainless steel water bottles lying around. I have one by my bed, one kicking around in the kitchen, one on my desk at home and another at the co-working space. It means wherever I am, I usually have a water bottle with me and it’s easier to stay hydrated.
You can pick up these stainless steel bottles all over the place. To me, stainless feels better than plastic (even the BPA free ones) and the double walled versions keep your drinks hot or cold for longer.